It's June, and travel is at an all- time high! It seems everyone I know is planning to go somewhere, and post-Covid, its time to stretch our wings!

Did you know that travel can be highly beneficial for mental health, wellbeing, and self-development for a number of reasons? Well, let me count the ways: First, it allows individuals to step out of their comfort zones and experience new cultures, which can broaden their perspectives and help them develop empathy and understanding. Second, travel can be a great stress reliever and provide a break from the daily routine. Third, it can help individuals build confidence and self-esteem as they navigate unfamiliar environments. Fourth, travel can provide opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. Finally, it can create lasting memories and positive experiences that can improve overall life satisfaction.

For Black women in particular, travel can provide unique benefits. It can offer a break from the stress and pressures of daily life and provide opportunities for self-care and relaxation. Additionally, it can allow Black women to connect with other cultures and communities, which can help us develop a stronger sense of self and identity. Finally, travel can be a powerful tool for combating stereotypes and negative perceptions, as it allows Black women to showcase our strength, diversity, resilience, and beauty in new and varied environments.

I've loved to travel since I was a very little girl, and my parents encouraged my little sister and I by making sure we had a chance to experience most modes of transportation by the time we were ten. (The one major exception- helicopter!)  My parents also took us on amazing station wagon vacations out West where we camped under the stars of New Mexico and Arizona, gambled in Las Vegas ( yep- we manhandled the slot machines as minors...) took in the views of Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, and the Pacific Palisades of California. We studied maps, and named rivers, lakes and mountain ranges, and historical places of interest. We sang and played word and geography games. Those experiences helped shape my life, and personality today.

Where do you plan to travel this summer? What are your favorite places, and do you have a favorite airport? My favorite airport? Well, since you asked,  :) ...its Gatwyck in London.

Safe travels,

xo,

Sunya Folayan

 A little about me:  I enjoy helping people- especially women who are thinking about their retirement years, and who want to increase their cashflow and build a better financial foundation so they can live more intentional lives of freedom, rest, travel, and ease. Moreover, I center much of my content to reflect the voices and concerns of Black Women so we can work on some of the historical disparities around asset building in our communities.  As a Certified Financial Social Worker, I am also a member of and ambassador for the Professional Financial Wellness Community. I have two adult children, two grandchildren,  two sisters, and a large extended family. As a creative practitioner, (textile artist and musician), I am figuring out how to integrate all my passions into my life in Mexico where I reside most of the year. You can find me on social media platforms as Mind and Manna (Fb, IG, Tik Tok and YouTube) and Sunfolayan (Fb and IG).